An alert resident in the north ward noticed someone lurking around their vehicle shortly after midnight and called the police.
A short time later, at about 12:30 a.m. today, Orillia OPP officers were able to locate a suspect matching the description. He was walking down the street with two other individuals in the Peter Street/Mississaga Street area.
The suspect was arrested, and during a search, police discovered he had a prohibited knife in his possession.
Police determined one of the other men was wanted by police on an outstanding warrant and he was also arrested. However, he would not go quietly into the night.
He "became combative with police while officers conducted their search," noted a release from the Orillia OPP.
The suspect "attempted to brandish a large knife from his waistband," the release noted.
Officers were able to subdue the suspect without further incident.
James White, 33, of Orillia, is accused of carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a dangerous weapon, assaulting police and failure to comply with a probation order.
White was held for a bail hearing today (June 8) at the Ontario Court of Justice in Barrie.
Darryl Alexander, 41, also of Orillia, is accused of possession of a dangerous weapon and unauthorized possession of a weapon. He was released on an undertaking and will answer his charges at the Ontario Court of Justice in Orillia on July 12.
"This is a good reminder for citizens (to) call police if you observe anyone suspicious going through your neighbourhood at night," said Orillia OPP Const. Brett Boniface.
He said it's important to "get a good description of the suspect(s) and call police (but) do not confront the individual(s), as your safety is paramount."
